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Mike Patterson Dies After Heroic Rescue, Family Issues Statement

Mike Patterson has died after initially becoming paralyzed in the rescue of a 4-year-old girl, and now good samaritan has is being remembered not only for his sacrifice, but for his life.

The story of Mike Patterson’s heroic rescue at great cost to himself was one that moved many on the web even prior to his death, and a page for Patterson created after his accident on Facebook had drawn tens of thousands of fans and more than $90,000 in donations for the recovery of the uninsured man. (Update: More than $100,000.)

After Patterson’s passing due to his injuries, a family statement on the Facebook Page Friends Of Mike Patterson was simple, reading:

We pray for a peace that surpasses all understanding. We find comfort and solace in knowing that Mike is whole and healthy again, walking in the Kingdom.

Later, an obituary followed, with an excerpt listing Patterson’s survivors:

This morning, the Mike Patterson Facebook page encouraged the man’s supporters to be inspired by his sacrifice, and it read in part:

“Mike Patterson has left a legacy of compassion, courage, selflessness and love. We encourage each and every one of you (ourselves included!) to think about the legacy your own life will leave. Let not Mike’s death be in vain. Let not Mike’s flame be extinguished over time. Make a personal commitment to DAILY live out the virtues and values you want to be remembered by. If Mike’s story and heroic actions have inspired you, please Pay It Forward to another in need.”

Although Patterson, who was visiting the creek where he was injured with his son, died of the injuries sustained, Javaeh Jones, 4, survived unscathed after she’d been swept away and saved by the Georgia man.